Xavi could miss Milan match

The 33-year-old playmaker suffered a hamstring tear during Barcelona's Copa del Rey defeat to Real Madrid on Tuesday evening and is set to be out of action for 10-15 days

Barcelona have confirmed that midfielder Xavi will be out of action for 10 to 15 days, meaning he is a major doubt for their Champions League last-16 second leg against AC Milan on March 12.

The Spain international sustained a muscle tear in his left hamstring during the 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid at Camp Nou on Tuesday evening

The 33-year-old, who is a veteran in Barca's side, finished the Copa del Rey semi-final despite having played through the pain barrier and, consequently, will miss their Clasico match with Madrid on Saturday.

The Catalunya side released the following statement on their official website on Friday afternoon: "The club's medical services have announced that Xavi has sustained muscle tear in his left hamstring and will be out of action for 10 to 15 days.

"The midfielder finished this Tuesday’s match against Real Madrid with physical discomfort. Therefore, he will miss tomorrow’s Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"It’s worth noting that Xavi was given the medial all-clear on February 18 after he successfully recovered from a similar injury. The midfielder went on to play against Milan."

If Xavi does miss the game Milan it will be a huge blow to the side, given the Spaniard's usual influence on the team and their need to overcome a two-goal deficit without an away goal to their name.

Jordi Roura's side know a win at the Santiago Bernabeu could all-but-clinch the Liga title, though Atletico Madrid remain second in the division and an outside threat to Barca.